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Garfield County approves development plan near Carbondale

Additional residential lots and affordable housing options at McClure River Ranch

PRESS RELEASE
October 27, 2025

Garfield County has approved a preliminary plan and minor modification to a planned unit development (PUD) for McClure River Ranch near Carbondale. The approvals pave the way for residential dwellings and potential affordable housing units on the property, which is home to polo and equestrian events.

The development, which is owned by Aspen Polo Partners LLC, is located just off Highway 82 between the Waldorf School and Blue Creek Ranch. The 98.19-acre property features two zone districts, one of which will be home to 12 residential lots and a 28.92-acre open space area.

The PUD amendment allows for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a use by right in district 2 and establishes an affordable housing plan.

“The northern portion, which has already gone through a major subdivision process, was designated for a mixture of residential uses, barns, a clubhouse, and events spaces,” said Garfield County Principal Planner Philip Berry. “It is associated with the polo club’s activities. Zone district 2 was always intended for residential development.”

Jon Fredericks with LANDWEST Planning and Design spoke on behalf of Aspen Polo Partners LLC, telling the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) that there 14 dwelling units allowed in district 1, including two existing horse barns with apartments attached.

“Six of those would be in barns, four would be cabins that are in a dedicated building envelope, and the other four are earmarked for potential affordable housing in zone district 1,” he told the board.

He added that in 2007, a comprehensive plan amendment designated the property residential high density, and a PUD and preliminary plan were approved in 2008, allowing for 89 dwelling units on the property. A change in ownership in 2017 led to the addition of the polo and equestrian uses and lowered the overall density to 54 units.

“As it stands today, the number of dwellings allowed in zone district 2 is 40,” Fredericks said. “What we’re proposing is 12 lots with each one having the option for an ADU. So, the maximum density in zone district 2 would be 24.”

The residential area includes a shared space for events and a community garden, as well as parking. Staff recommended approval of the development plan with conditions, including that the developer provides an updated affordable housing plan that is acceptable by both the Garfield County Housing Authority and the BOCC.

The board approved the minor PUD amendment and the preliminary plan unanimously, 3-0.